State Legislators Announce $6 Million to Improve John Downey Drive

Members of the New Britain state legislative delegation, Sen Rick Lopes (D-6), Rep Dave DeFronzo (D-26) and Rep Gary Turco (D-27) have announced $6.4 million in state funding for John Downey Drive corridor.

“These upgrades will improve accessibility for both vehicles and pedestrians,” said Sen Lopes, about the funding, awarded through the Local Transportation Improvement Program (LOTCIP), administered by the Connecticut Department of Transportation. “Given the corridor’s central location, it’s an ideal area for businesses to grow and expand.”

“With Chesley Park, Alvarium, Lincoln Tech, and dozens of local businesses, John Downey Drive is almost always active,” Rep DeFronzo added.

The legislators’ offices said that, “The John Downey Drive corridor is one of the largest commercial and light industrial sites in New Britain. It serves key local institutions including Lincoln Technical School and Alvarium Beer Company. With over 6,500 vehicles traveling the road daily, the area has seen steady growth in recent years.”

“This project will help replace aging infrastructure, making the entire area safer and more business friendly,” Rep DeFronzo said.

“One of the best aspects of this grant is that CTDOT not only provides the funding, but also handles the federal regulatory process,” said Rep Turco.

The project, the legislators’ offices said, “includes pavement milling and overlay, updated traffic signals, roadway narrowing, new concrete sidewalks with ADA-compliant ramps, improved drainage, and enhanced pavement markings and signage.”

“We’re optimistic these improvements will attract new investment and create jobs for New Britain residents,” added Rep Turco.

Editor’s note: Cover image is a combination of photos by Dr Dr Frank Gerratana.